September is when Korean summer fades into autumn. The first half of the month can still be hot, but the air soon turns fresher and the skies clearer. It is also the month of Chuseok, Korea's harvest holiday, which changes how the country travels for a few days. Here is what to know.
What the weather is like
Early September in Seoul is often still warm and humid. By the second half of the month, mornings and evenings are pleasantly cool and the days are dry and sunny, the start of Korea's best season. Typhoons are still possible, mostly early in the month. See our seasons and weather guide.
What to pack
- Summer clothes for early September, plus a light jacket for late-month evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes for palaces, parks and hikes.
- A small umbrella in case of showers or a passing typhoon.
Chuseok: what it means for travellers
Chuseok is a three-day harvest holiday when families gather in their hometowns, honour their ancestors and eat songpyeon (half-moon rice cakes). In 2027 it runs from 14 to 16 September. For visitors it means:
- Trains and buses sell out weeks ahead, and motorways are jammed. Avoid travelling between cities on the first and last days.
- Some shops and restaurants close for a day or two, especially family-run places. Big shops, chain restaurants, convenience stores and most sights stay open.
- Seoul is quieter than usual, and palaces and folk villages often hold traditional events. Check opening days before you go.
Things to do in September
Early autumn flowers
Late September brings cosmos and fluffy pink muhly grass to parks and fields, and silver grass begins to wave on the hills. The leaves start to turn in October; see our autumn leaves guide.
Festivals
Autumn festival season begins, including the Andong mask dance festival around late September and early October. Our festival calendar has this year's dates.
Hiking and day trips
As the heat breaks, it is a great time for hikes, cycling and trips to Gyeongju, Jeonju and the coast. See our 7-day itinerary.
Compare with Korea in August and Korea in October, or see every month in our best time to visit Korea guide.
FAQ
When is Chuseok in 2027?
From 14 to 16 September 2027, with Chuseok day itself on 15 September.
Is September a good time to visit Korea?
Yes, especially the second half: cooler, dry and sunny. Plan around Chuseok if you want to travel between cities.
Are things closed in Korea during Chuseok?
Some small shops and restaurants close for a day or two, but most sights, big shops, chains and convenience stores stay open.
